The ITU World Triathlon San Diego marked the first time an ITU race was held in modern triathlon’s birthplace since its creation in 1974. The event also doubled as a U.S. qualifier for London, giving the race even more significance. The Pacific coast served as the perfect backdrop to capture the emotion and beauty that went along with the day.

In this week’s Photo of the Year competition, Manny Huerta (USA) received an overwhelming one third (33.56%) of the votes. On that day in San Diego, Huerta punched his ticket to London as the second-fastest American to finish in the top-9. While celebrating his first Olympic berth, Huerta’s tense, exerted body perfectly communicates the sheer exuberance of a lifelong dream realized.

Here’s what photographer Larry Rosa had to say about the winning photo.

This is the first ITU race I’ve shot; I usually do Ironman races so I’m not as familiar with the athletes. When I saw this athletes reaction to a ninth place finish I knew it was something more, something really special. I really tried to capture the full extent of his emotions, he was absolutely euphoric. It was an amazing feeling to be there watching.

Camera: Canon Mark IVLens: 300mm, f4Exposure: ASA 400 , 1/3200sec

The shot of Aurélien Raphael seemingly in flight as he takes off for the bike was the second-most popular photo with one quarter (24.9%) of the votes. Aurélien appears to be weightless in this agile transition from running to cycle, showing his masterful technical skills.